Dean Goodwin, 32, who has served prison sentences for abusing both women and children, is wanted for questioning by police in Dorset.

A woman, aged in her 20s, was subjected to a serious sexual assault at an address in Poole on Friday.

Detectives have advised members of the public not to approach Goodwin but instead call 999 if they see him.

Anyone helping or harbouring Goodwin has been warned by police they will be arrested.

Goodwin, who is from Poole, is described as white, 5ft 10in and has a stocky, muscular build. He also has very short hair.

In 2009 he was branded a "high risk" offender by police after he absconded while out on licence from his 10-year sentence for indecently assaulting a woman and teenage girl.

He was captured and returned to prison but was later released.

Detective Inspector Marcus Hester, from Dorset Police, said yesterday: "Officers are continuing to search for Dean Goodwin and we are following positive lines of inquiry.

"We need to trace Dean Goodwin urgently and I would urge any member of the public to contact the police immediately if they see him. Members of the public should not approach Goodwin themselves if they see him."